Summer Cycling Program

Our Summer Cycling Program is open for registration!

OVERVIEW

We started our summer cycling program because we believe all individuals with disabilities are capable of riding a bike. Students in our program learn bike handling skills. As they progress, we’ll take them out on street riding. Our instructors will tailor their teaching techniques for each student’s unique goals and capabilities.

Summer Cycling is open to anyone ages 5 or older. Our course is especially geared towards beginners. Our students come from all backgrounds; many have physical or cognitive disabilities, others just never learned to ride as a kid. You are welcome to participate no matter your experience with bikes!

PROGRAM DETAILS

COST

$120 (2-Day Site) or $60 (1-Day Site) per student

SITES

Detroit, Dexter, New Boston, Saline & Ypsilanti

DATES

June 17 – August 9th

CLASS LENGTH

50 Minutes

CLASS SIZE

4 to 6 Students, with 3 instructors per site.

EQUIPMENT

We provide bikes and helmets, but you can bring your own.

WHAT TO EXPECT

GOAL SETTING

In the first session, an instructor will assess every student’s physical abilities. Then, students will set a unique cycling goal (like riding a 2-wheel bike or riding a tandem bike with a family member).

SKILLS TRAINING

Students learn how to balance on their bike, pedal, and brake. As students become more comfortable, instructors will take them out on rides around the surrounding community. We track every student’s progress throughout the summer to ensure they’ll meet their goal.

END OF SUMMER RIDE

Students and staff go on a celebratory ride at the end of summer. Parents, siblings, and friends are welcome! After the ride, we’ll grab ice cream and celebrate every student’s accomplishments.

MAREN

“I thought Maren could never ride a bike with her physical limitations without training wheels. To my huge surprise and delight, Maren was riding her bike without support after the third or fourth class.”

Sarah

Maren’s Parent

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who are the instructors?

Our Summer Cycling Program instructors come from a variety of backgrounds like recreational therapy, occupational therapy, special education, cycling, and beyond! This diversity makes for a creative and cohesive team. On a 2022 parent survey, staff received an average of 9.7 out of 10! We are proud to have such a passionate, dedicated family of staff.

How are instructors trained?

Summer Cycling Program instructors receive 4 days of training by PEAC’s full time staff, many of whom are League of American Bicyclists League Certified Instructors (LCI). Instructors are initially trained on good cycling habits. They then learn about disability awareness, adaptive equipment, and mechanical skills. By the end, instructors are prepared to teach all levels of students.

Can I help out as a family member/friend during sessions?

We’d love to have your help on site! Because there are 3 instructors and 4-6 students at each session, family/friend participation is encouraged. We’ll teach you about the bike(s) your student is riding, skill development techniques, and how to captain a tandem.